Portable target system

ABSTRACT

A portable target system includes a pair of legs which engage a receiving bracket to form a base. The legs can be placed together and attached to the receiving bracket to form a portable target system when not in use. The portable target system may also include a target bracket which is configured to be attached to a target support structure to hold a target plate above the base.

BACKGROUND State of the Art

The present invention relates to targets used for target practice. Morespecifically, the present invention relates to portable target systemswhich are readily transportable and which can be used to facilitatedifferent target training exercises.

Field of Art

In order to maintain proficiency in the use of firearms, it is commonfor law enforcement officers, members of the military, and sportsmen toengage in target practice. While many perceive target practice as simplya method for improving accuracy, it is important for law enforcementofficers and the like to conduct target practice in varying scenarios toavoid preconditioning in which the target practice becomes somewhatrote. By providing different training scenarios, a shooter may improvehis or her timing and the ability to make split-second decisions onwhether or not to fire. Such split-second decisions can mean thedifference between life and death both for the officer, soldier, etc.,and a potential threat. Using different training scenarios can also helpthe average hunter as the prey rarely presents itself in the same wayeach time.

It is often desirable to have the target system be portable. While atarget may be used indoors, there are many times in which it isdesirable to relocate the target to another location so that theenvironment, etc. in which the target is being used is different. Also,it may be desirable to move targets around during training sessions toalter the scenario.

Many target systems are heavy and require multiple people to safely movethe target. Additionally, many target systems are bulky and difficult tomove in a vehicle which does not have an open bed or substantial room.It is desirable, however, to make a target system which is relativelylight weight, and compactable so that it may be carried in a small spaceand easy to configure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following summary of the present invention is not intended todescribe each illustrated embodiment or every possible implementation ofthe invention, but rather to give illustrative examples of applicationof principles of the invention.

In some configurations, the invention may comprise a portable targetsystem which has a collapsible base and a mounting bracket for attachinga target onto a stand.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the base mayinclude receiving bracket, a first leg and a second leg. The receivingbracket may be configured to receive the first leg and the second leg sothat the first and second legs extend outwardly from the receivingbracket and hold the receiving bracket in a generally verticalorientation. The interaction between the receiving bracket and the legsmay be formed by an extension on or more of the structures and a slot onone or more of the other structures so that receiving bracket and thelegs nest together to thereby hold the receiving bracket generallyvertical when in an assembled configuration. Alternatively, thereceiving bracket and the legs may include compliant portion so that thereceiving bracket and legs snap together. The first and second legs andthe receiving bracket may also be disassembled and collapsed together sothat a pin or other retainer is used to hold the three pieces togetherin a disassembled state where they are substantially more compact thanwhen assembled.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, thereceiving bracket may have a handle or strap attached thereto forcarrying the receiving bracket and the first and second legs.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, thereceiving bracket may be bent or formed so that a longitudinal axistaken through one portion of the receiving bracket is offset fromanother portion of the receiving bracket. Thus, for example, a firstportion of the receiving bracket when engaged with the first and secondlegs may be configured to be substantially vertical as it extends fromthe first and second legs, while a second portion of the receivingbracket is offset so that a longitudinal axis extending through thereceiving bracket is sloped about 5 degrees to 45 degrees forward ofvertical, with a more preferred angle being of about 10 to 25 degrees,and a currently preferred angle being about 15 degrees. The secondportion may be sized and shaped to receive a target support structure,such as post or 2×4 to hold a target at a desired height above theground and the base.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a targetbracket is included which may be attached to the receiving bracketand/or one or more the first and second legs during transport. Thetarget bracket may be attached via a pin, or may simply engage astructure on one or more of the legs and the receiving bracket to holdthe target bracket in place.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the targetbracket may include an optional or removable retention mechanism forholding the target bracket to a support structure so that the targetbracket remains at a desired height. The retention mechanism may be aprojection which prevents the target bracket from moving downwardly onthe target support structure. In the alternative, the retentionmechanism may be fastener, such as a set screw, a conventional screw ora nail which engages the target support structure to hold the targetbracket at a desired location along the target support structure.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a pluralityof target brackets may be disposed along the target support structure sothat a plurality of targets may be positioned along the supportstructure.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the targetbracket may have a removable hard stop that may be used to fix thetarget bracket at the top of the support structure for quick deploymentof the target system.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, blockingplate may be mounted on one or more of a receiving bracket or a targetbracket for deflecting bullets or other projectiles away from the targetsupport structure.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the targetbracket may include a slot for receiving a target arm so that the targetmay be mounted on and removed from the target bracket without the use oftools.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the targetarm may be formed from spring steel having sufficient rigidity to holdthe target substantially parallel to the target support structure duringuse.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a pluralityof targets or different sizes or configurations may be used with aplurality of target brackets disposed along a single target supportstructure.

In accordance with other aspect of the present disclosure, a targetsupport frame is provided. The target support frame includes at leastone target support frame brace having a plurality of openings formedtherein, a plurality of legs which extend from the target support framebrace, a target support structure and one or more targets.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the targetsupport frame brace includes a plurality of openings formed thereinconfigured for receiving at least two legs of a target support stand,and an opening for receiving a target support structure.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the targetsupport frame brace has a first, outer pair of holes configured forreceiving a pair of legs at a first angle and a second, inner pair ofholes for receiving a pair of legs at a second angle, the second anglebeing smaller than the first angle. By selecting what pair of holes isused, the target support frame brace can be held at varying heightswhile using legs of a given length to adjust the height of the targetsupport frame.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the targetsupport frame brace includes a target support structure opening. Theopening is formed by overlapping voids, the first void having a firstlength disposed at one angle and a second void having a second lengthdisposed at an angle offset from a first angle at which the first voidis disposed. For example the first void may extend at an angle ofbetween about 10 and 20 degrees less than vertical in one direction,while the second voice may extend at an angle of between about 30 and 60degrees from vertical in an opposite direction.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the targetsupport frame bracket may include a pair of upper openings for receivingan upper end of the legs, and a hard stop for limiting the advancementof the legs beyond a predetermined point along the target support framebracket.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure a targetsupport structure, such as a 2×4, can be mounted in a pair of targetframe support brackets to hold the 2×4 in a first orientation in whichone or more targets mounted thereon are held in a first position, and asecond orientation in which one or more target brackets can be held in asecond position.

These and other aspects of the present invention are realized in atarget system as shown and described in the following figures andrelated description. It will be appreciated that various embodiments ofthe invention may not include each aspect set forth above and aspectsdiscussed above shall not be read into the claims unless specificallydescribed therein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described inreference to the numbered drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates side view of a portable target system including abase, a target bracket and a target disposed on a target supportstructure;

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the target bracket and target ofFIG. 1 taken along the line 2-2;

FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the portable target system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a front view of the portable target system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a front view of a portable target system similar to FIG. 1and further including a blocking plate disposed along a lower portion ofa target support structure;

FIG. 6 shows a side view of a portable target system having a pluralityof target brackets and targets;

FIG. 7 shows front view of the portable target system of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 shows a side view of the portable target system collapsed forcarrying;

FIG. 9 shows a top view of the portable target system as shown in FIG.8;

FIG. 10 shows a fragmented side perspective view of the receivingbracket being mounted on the base;

FIG. 11 shows a rear perspective view of a target support frame and aplurality of targets;

FIG. 12 shows a front view of the target support frame of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 shows an alternate configuration of the target support frame ofFIGS. 10 and 11;

FIG. 14 shows and end view of a target support frame brace in accordancewith principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 shows portable target support frame and a plurality of targetsdisposed thereon.

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of a number of target support framebraces stacked in a storage configuration.

It will be appreciated that the drawings are illustrative and notlimiting of the scope of the invention which is defined by the appendedclaims. The embodiments shown accomplish various aspects and objects ofthe invention. It will be appreciated that it is not possible to clearlyshow each element and aspect of the present disclosure in a singlefigure, and as such, multiple figures are presented to separatelyillustrate the various details of different aspects of the invention ingreater clarity. Similarly, not all configurations or embodimentsdescribed herein or covered by the appended claims will include all ofthe aspects of the present disclosure as discussed above.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various aspects of the invention and accompanying drawings will now bediscussed in reference to the numerals provided therein so as to enableone skilled in the art to practice the present invention. The skilledartisan will understand, however, that the methods described below canbe practiced without employing these specific details, or that they canbe used for purposes other than those described herein. Indeed, they canbe modified and can be used in conjunction with products and techniquesknown to those of skill in the art in light of the present disclosure.The drawings and the descriptions thereof are intended to be exemplaryof various aspects of the invention and are not intended to narrow thescope of the appended claims. Furthermore, it will be appreciated thatthe drawings may show aspects of the invention in isolation and theelements in one figure may be used in conjunction with elements shown inother figures.

Reference in the specification to “one embodiment,” “one configuration,”“an embodiment,” or “a configuration” means that a particular feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodimentmay be included in at least one embodiment, etc. The appearances of thephrase “in one embodiment” in various places may not necessarily limitthe inclusion of a particular element of the invention to a singleembodiment, rather the element may be included in other or allembodiments discussed herein.

Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics ofembodiments of the present disclosure may be combined in any suitablemanner in one or more embodiments. In the following description,numerous specific details may be provided, such as examples of productsor manufacturing techniques that may be used, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in therelevant art will recognize, however, that embodiments discussed in thedisclosure may be practiced without one or more of the specific details,or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In otherinstances, well-known structures, materials, or operations may not beshown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of theinvention.

Before the present invention is disclosed and described in detail, itshould be understood that the present invention is not limited to anyparticular structures, process steps, or materials discussed ordisclosed herein, but is extended to include equivalents thereof aswould be recognized by those of ordinarily skill in the relevant art.More specifically, the invention is defined by the terms set forth inthe claims. It should also be understood that terminology containedherein is used for the purpose of describing particular aspects of theinvention only and is not intended to limit the invention to the aspectsor embodiments shown unless expressly indicated as such. Likewise, thediscussion of any particular aspect of the invention is not to beunderstood as a requirement that such aspect is required to be presentapart from an express inclusion of that aspect in the claims.

It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and theappended claims, singular forms such as “a,” “an,” and “the” may includethe plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, forexample, reference to “a bracket” may include an embodiment having oneor more of such brackets, and reference to “the target plate” mayinclude reference to one or more of such target plates.

As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete ornearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property,state, structure, item, or result to function as indicated. For example,an object that is “substantially” enclosed would mean that the object iseither completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The exactallowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in somecases depend on the specific context, such that enclosing the nearly allof the length of a lumen would be substantially enclosed, even if thedistal end of the structure enclosing the lumen had a slit or channelformed along a portion thereof. The use of “substantially” is equallyapplicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the completeor near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state,structure, item, or result. For example, structure which is“substantially free of” a bottom would either completely lack a bottomor so nearly completely lack a bottom that the effect would beeffectively the same as if it completely lacked a bottom.

As used herein, the term “generally” refers to something that hascharacteristics of a quality without being exactly that quality. Forexample, a structure said to be generally vertical would be at least asvertical as horizontal, i.e. would extend 45 degrees or greater fromhorizontal. Likewise, something said to be generally circular may berounded like an oval but need not have a consistent diameter in everydirection.

As used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility to anumerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “alittle above” or “a little below” the endpoint while still accomplishingthe function associated with the range.

As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositionalelements, and/or materials may be presented in a common list forconvenience. However, these lists should be construed as though eachmember of the list is individually identified as a separate and uniquemember.

Concentrations, amounts, proportions and other numerical data may beexpressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be understoodthat such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity andthus should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numericalvalues explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also toinclude all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassedwithin that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitlyrecited. As an illustration, a numerical range of “about 1 to about 5”should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited valuesof about 1 to about 5, but also include individual values and sub-rangeswithin the indicated range. Thus, included in this numerical range areindividual values such as 2, 3, and 4 and sub-ranges such as from 1-3,from 2-4, and from 3-5, etc., as well as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5,individually. This same principle applies to ranges reciting only onenumerical value as a minimum or a maximum. Furthermore, such aninterpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range orthe characteristics being described.

Turning now to FIG. 1, there is shown a portable target system,generally indicated at 4, formed in accordance with principles of thepresent invention. The portable target system 4, may include a base,generally indicated at 8, and a target bracket, 12. The portable targetsystem may further include a target 16 which may be releasablyattachable to the target bracket 12. This may be accomplished, forexample, by a target arm 20, which is discussed in additional detailwith respect to FIG. 2.

The base 8 may include a plurality of legs 24 which are designed toextend outwardly to support the portable target system. The legs 24 mayengage a receiving bracket 28 which is designed to receive the legs andhold them in a desired orientation. A shown in FIG. 1, slots in one endof the receiving bracket receive the legs such that a first portion 24 aof the legs extend rearwardly and outwardly from the receiving bracket28. The first portion 24 a of the legs 24 may be shaped with the lowerportion somewhat arch shaped so that they end in feet 32 a which engagethe surface on which the portable target system 4 is placed. (As shownin FIG. 1, the feet 32 b may include a cutout 34 sized to receive a nutso that the legs 24 can be used as a wrench to tighten or remove thenuts 56 which hold the target 16 to the target arm 20).

The legs 24 may be formed from a generally flat piece of steel or otherdurable material and may be bent so that the first portion extends toone side at an angle of between about 30 to 50 degrees so that whenengaging the receiving bracket 28 the first portion extends bothrearwardly and outwardly to provide stability to the receiving portion.

The second portion 24 b of the legs 24 extend forwardly and outwardlyfrom the receiving portion 28 and may extend upwardly and thendownwardly to form feet 32 b which engage the surface on which portabletarget system 4 is resting. The legs 24 may also include flanges 24 cwhich extend outwardly from the legs generally perpendicular to theheight. The flanges can be used both for improving stability and forproviding attachment points for holding the portable target system 4together for transport. The legs 24 may further include notches 30. Thenotches 30 and/or holes in one or more flanges 24 c may be used to stakeor otherwise attach the legs in place to prevent movement, for example,if one using a higher caliber projective which may cause movement of theportable target system 4.

The receiving bracket 28 includes a first receiving portion 28 a whichhas slots or other figures shaped to engage the legs 24 and thereby holdthe receiving bracket generally upright or vertical. The receivingbracket 28 may also include a second receiving portion 28 b forreceiving a target support structure 36 which is designed to engage withand hold the target bracket 12 generally above the receiving bracket.The receiving bracket 28 may be bent or otherwise formed so that thesecond receiving portion 28 a extends at an offset angle (typically 10to 25 or 30 to 50 degrees, and preferably either 15 or 45 degrees) suchthat a target support structure 36 engaging the second receiving portion28 b is held at an angle between 10 and 25 degrees or 30 to 50 degreesless then vertical.

When a bullet impacts a target, it is desirable to have the targetleaning forward at an angle to direct ricochets and bulletsplatter/fragments toward the ground. When using a hand gun, a desirableangle may be roughly 15 degrees. For most rifles, an angle of roughly 45degrees allows the bullet to be deflected without the bullet causing toomuch damage to the target. By holding the target support structure 36 ata similar angle, the target support structure is less likely to be hitby ricochets and splatter/fragments, thereby potentially damaging thesupport structure. As shown in FIG. 1, the target support structure is a2×4 piece of wood. While the disposability of the wood is advantageousalong with the ease of cutting the wood to a desired length to adjusttarget height, correlating the angle of the target 16 and the angle ofthe target support structure 36 prevents unnecessary wear and tear. Itwill be appreciated that the target support structure could be a varietyof other materials as well, such as metal, plastic or vinyl tubing,artificial decking materials, steel 2×4s, etc.

The target bracket 12 can be made to simply rest on the top of thetarget support structure 36. This may be accomplished by having thebracket extend out over the channel into which the support structure 36is disposed, or can be accomplished by using a set screw or a removablepin 42 to form a hard stop. However, as shown below, the target bracketmay be configured to slide along the target support structure 36 andthen be held in place by a fastener 40, such as a set screw, aconventional screw, a nail, clamp, etc. As will be discussed below,multiple target brackets 12 may be used along the target supportstructure 36 so that multiple targets may be used adjacent one another.

FIG. 1 also shows a handle 44 disposed on the receiving bracket 28 tofacilitate carrying the portable target system when collapsed, and toreposition the target when in use. Additionally, FIG. 1 shows aplurality of cut-outs 48 on the brackets 12 and 28 to reduce the weightof the system.

Turning now to FIG. 2, there is shown a side cross-sectional view of atarget bracket 12 and target 16 made in accordance with one aspect ofthe present invention. The target bracket 12 includes a rear wall 12 awhich may contain the fastener 40, and an open upper and bottom end toallow the bracket to slide along a target support structure (not show).The rear wall 12 a may also include a tab 41 which extends beyond thebottom the bracket 12. The tab 41 provides extra support against thesupport structure 36 as the natural inclination of the bracket 12 is topivot rearwardly when the target 16 is struck by a bullet.

The target bracket 12 may further include a front wall 12 b. It will beappreciated that the front and rear walls need not be continuousvertically or horizontally and opposing sides of the target bracket maybe held together by additional structures.

The target bracket further includes a retaining structure 12 c, whichmay be a continuous wall, flanges or the like, and the space between theretaining structure 12 c and the front wall 12 b may form a slot orchannel 52 adjacent the front wall 12 b. The channel 52 is configured toreceive a first end 20 a of the target arm 20 which is attached to atarget 16, typically at or near an opposing end 20 c by a plurality ofbolts 56 or some other fastening mechanism. The target arm 20 may alsoinclude a curved portion 20 b which provides roughly a 180 degree changeof direction in the target arm. This allows the target 16 to bepositioned in front of the target bracket 12 to protect the targetbracket from being struck by projectiles fired at the target.

The target arm 20 may be thick enough that it allows little deflectionwhen the target 16 is struck by a bullet. This ensures that the ricochetpattern for the bullet splatter remains in the desired location (e.g.about 15 degrees from vertical). Many other targets available aremounted in such a way that the target can deflect substantially when hitby a round. This makes controlling ricochets and splatter pattern moredifficult. It has been found that spring steel between about 3/32 and5/32 of an inch in thickness is ideal. In addition to holding the targetin the desired location when impacted by a round, it has been found thatthe spring steel allows the target to vibrate and “ring” or provide agood acoustic indication when the target 16 has been hit by aprojectile. When training it is desirable that the shooter knows asquickly and clearly as possible that they have hit the target. Whilemany target attachments muffle the sound of the bullet hitting theplate, the target arm made of spring steel allows both for properpositioning of the target and a clear sound to be emitted from thetarget when struck by a bullet.

It will be appreciated that the target bracket 12 can be placed on atarget support structure (not show) such as a 2×4, plastic or vinylpost, etc., very quickly. For example, when the hard stop (such as pin42) is in place, the bracket 12 can simply be placed on top of thesupport structure. If a location other than the top of the supportstructure 36 is desired, the pin 42 is removed and/or the fastener 40removed or loosened, if present. The target bracket 12 is then slid downthe support structure until it is at a desired location. The fastener 40(e.g. a set screw) may then be inserted or tightened and the first end20 a of the target arm 20 slid into the slot or channel 52. All of thiscan be accomplished in a matter of a few seconds. Alternatively, thetarget arm can be mounted on the target bracket 12 and then the targetbracket may be slid onto the post 36 and fastened at the desiredlocation by the fastener 40. In fact, the entire portable target systemcan be assembled or disassembled in less than a minute and without theneed for tools. Once a target bracket 12 is in place on a post, varioussizes of targets 16 may be slid into and out of the bracket 12 bysliding the target arm 20 into and out of channel 52 on the targetbracket 12.

Turning now to FIG. 3, there is shown rear view of the portable targetsystem 4. As was discussed previously, the target 16 may be attached tothe target bracket 12 by the target arm 20, which extends into the slotor channel (not shown) on the front of the target bracket. The targetarm 20 may be held to the target 16 by a plurality of nuts 56 whichthread onto bolts 68 welded or otherwise attached to the target 16.

The target bracket 12 may have a plurality of holes or apertures 60(FIG. 2) for receiving a fastener, such as a set screw, a regular screw,a nail, clamping mechanism etc. The fastener 40 (FIG. 1) can hold theposition of the target bracket along the target support structure 36.Such will be particularly beneficial where the user wishes to disposemultiple targets 16 and/or a deflecting plate along the target supportstructure 36.

FIG. 3 also shows a plurality of slots or channels 64 which may beformed in the receiving bracket 28. One slot on the front side of avertical receiving bracket 28 and one slot on the rear side will receiveone of the legs 24 and the other slot on the front side and another onthe rear side will receive the other leg. This allows the legs 24 toextend outwardly so that each leg has a front portion 24 b extendingforwardly from the receiving bracket 28 and a rear portion extendingrearwardly and outwardly from the receiving bracket. Thus, theembodiment shown in FIG. 3 is configured such that either end of thereceiving bracket 28 has slots which can receive the legs 24 and holdthe receiving bracket 28 in a generally vertical orientation, as similarslots to slots 64 are disposed at the other end of the receiving bracketbut are not visible because of the legs 24.

FIG. 4 shows a front view of the portable target system 4 of FIG. 3. Thestructures are the same and those which are visible are numberedaccordingly. It will be seen in FIG. 4 that slots 64 may be provided onthe front side of the receiving bracket 28 so that legs can extendtherethrough if the receiving bracket were reversed. Also, a pluralityof cut-outs 48 may be provided to reduce the weight of the overallsystem.

Turning now to FIG. 5, there is shown a front view similar to that shownin FIG. 4. To protect the receiving bracket 28 and its engagement withthe legs 24, a blocking plate 72 may be attached to the target supportstructure 36. As shown the upper end 72 a of the blocking plate isbroader to give additional protection to the receiving bracket (notshown) and to facilitate attachment to a target arm. This may be done ina manner similar to that shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. The lower end 72 b ofthe blocking plate 72 may extend downwardly to cover or be disposed infront of the juncture of the legs 24 and the slots 64 (not shown in FIG.5) to prevent damage thereto by projectiles.

Turning now to FIGS. 6 and 7, there are shown a side perspective viewand a front view of a portable target system having a plurality oftargets 16 disposed the target support structure 36. A first target 16 ais the smallest and the targets 16 b, 16 c and 16 d increase in size asthey descend down the target support structure 36. It will beappreciated that the order of the targets may be reversed or varied bysimply loosening the fastener 40 for each target bracket 12, removingthe target brackets 12 from the target support structure 36 and thenadding them back on in the desired order. In the alternative, the usercould simply remove the target arms 20 from the slots or channels in thetarget brackets and then reinsert the target arm into the appropriatetarget bracket at the desired location and adjust the height of thebrackets 12 as needed by loosening and then tightening the fasteners 40.Thus, with very little effort, the portable target system 4 may bereconfigured for an alternate scenario.

FIGS. 6 and 7 also show the deflecting plate 72 attached at or adjacentan upper end 72 a to a target bracket 12 and lower end 72 b tapering sothat it fits between the legs 24 to be disposed adjacent the engagementof the legs and the lower end of the receiving bracket 28. While thelegs are shown as extending mostly above the surface and then extendingdownwardly to the feet 32 a and 32 b, it will be understood that thelegs may lie flat on the surface in a manner similar to feet and the useof the term legs herein is intended to include such a configuration.

FIG. 6 also shows bolts 80 used to attach the handle 44 to the receivingbracket 28, and a pin 84 which extends through one of the holes in thereceiving bracket 28 to secure the receiving bracket 28 to the legs 24.As shown in FIG. 6 the pin 84 engages a hole near the back of thereceiving bracket 28. During transport, the pin 84 may be inserted intoanother hole, such as hole 60 a to hold the legs in a collapsed positionwith the receiving bracket.

Turning now to FIG. 8, there is shown a side view of the portable targetsystem 4. The base 8 (FIG. 1) has been disassembled and the legs 24placed adjacent to or on top of each other. The first portion 24 a ofthe legs 24 are preferably bent at an angle relative to the secondportion 24 b so that the first portion extends rearwardly and outwardlyand the second portion extends forwardly and outwardly from thereceiving bracket 28 when the base is assembled. As shown in FIG. 8, thefirst portion 24 a of each leg 24 and the second portion 24 b of eachleg are generally perpendicular to one another. (In its carryingconfiguration, the legs 24 are placed adjacent to one another. From aside view it is difficult to see much of the leg which is to the rear,but it is substantially the mirror image of the visible leg in front.)

As was mentioned above, the legs 24 may include a plurality of flanges24 c which can be used for a variety of purposes. Base flanges 24 cextend along the first portion 24 a, the second portion 24 b and anintervening middle third portion 24 d. The base flanges 24 c help toprovide strength and stiffness to the legs and stability to the basewhen it is assembled.

As shown in FIG. 8, extension flanges can extend from the base flanges.Thus, for example extension flange 24 c′ is formed with a hook-likestructure which can be inserted to the receiving bracket 28 to help holdthe receiving bracket in place. Extension flange 24 c″″ has a hole (notvisible) through which a pin 84 slides to hold the receiving bracket inplace. This allows the handle 44 attached to the receiving bracket 28 tobe used to carry the portable target system 4.

Extension flange 24 c″ also includes a hook-like structure that allow itto receive the target bracket 12. The tab 41 on the backside of thetarget bracket 12 nests under the receiving bracket 28 so that thetarget bracket 12 is held between the extension tab 24 c″ and thereceiving bracket 28 in order to hold it in place between the legs 24during transport. In contrast, flanges 24 c′″ are simply base flangesand support the first portion 24 a and the third, middle portion 24 dwithout being designed to hold another structure.

FIG. 9 shows a top view of the portable target system 4. As can be seen,the legs 24 are overlapping one another and form a tray on which thereceiving bracket 28 and the target bracket 12 may be carried. Thisallows for a very compact portable target system 4 which can be placedin the trunk of an automobile or could even be carried on the back of amotorcycle in a small bag. Setting up the portable target system 4 maybe done as quickly as pulling the pin 84 to release the legs 24,positioning the legs on the ground, sliding the slots 64 at one end ofthe receiving bracket 28 on the ends of the third, middle portion 24 dof the legs, inserting a target support structure into the other end ofthe receiving bracket, sliding a target bracket onto the target supportstructure and inserting the target arm into the slot on the receivingbracket. In less than one minute the portable target system can beassembled for use.

While not shown in FIG. 9, it will be appreciated that one or moretargets could be carried with the portable target system. For example,the lower end 20 a of the target arms 20 of a couple of target armscould be inserted into a cutout 48 on the receiving bracket 28. Thetarget would thus hang on the side of the receiving bracket 28 and couldbe carried with the portable target system 4 by the handle 44.

FIG. 10 shows an alternate embodiment for assembling the portable targetsystem 4. Rather than having two long slots 64 on both the top/rear andbottom/front of the receiving bracket 28 simply slide onto the verticalportion of the legs 24, the receiving bracket may have slots 64 whichextend from the end of the receiving bracket 28 and openings 64′ whichare formed near the ends of the receiving bracket to receive a hook 66formed into each of the legs 24. A hole 67 is also formed into each ofthe legs. To assemble the portable target system 4, the legs 24 areplaced on the ground and the receiving bracket 28 is advanced so thatthe hooks 66 on the legs extend into the openings 64′ in the receivingbracket and the slots engage the portion of the leg generally below thehooks. The rear/upper hole 60 b on the receiving bracket 28 is alignedwith the hole 67 in each of the legs 24 and the retaining pin 84 isadvanced through the holes to lock receiving bracket to the legs. Thelegs 24 may also include a slot 69 for mating with the slots 64 (FIG. 3)in the receiving bracket 28.

To break down the portable target system 4, the retaining pin 84 isremoved, the receiving bracket 28 is removed from the hooks 66, the legs24 are rotated toward each other 90 degrees, the target bracket (notshow) is attached to the front hook as described with respect to FIG. 8,one end of the receiving bracket is engaged with the tab/flange/hook 24c′ and the hole 60 a is advanced into alignment with the hole in theflange 24 c″″ and the retaining pin inserted. Thus, less than a minutethe portable target system can be assembled or broken down for carryingor storage.

While the legs 24 discussed above are shown as being bent into threesections with the opposing ends being generally perpendicular to eachother, it will be appreciated that legs could be provided with a channelto allow the legs to overlap and form a general X shape while engagingthe receiving bracket 24.

Turning now to FIG. 11, there is shown a portable target system,generally indicated at 104. The portable target system 104 includes aplurality of legs 124 which engage at least one target support framebrace 110. As shown in FIG. 11, a first leg and second leg engage afirst target support frame brace 110 a, and a third and fourth legengage a second target support frame brace 110 b. The target supportframe braces 110 allow the legs 124 to engage each other so as to beheld generally vertical and hold the target support frame braces 110above the ground. This is accomplished by the target support frame brace110 having at least one hole 132 which is configured to receive an upperportion 124 a of each of a pair of the legs, and an engagement member orhard stop 138 which engages at or near the tops of the legs 124. Betweenthe hard stop 138 and the structure of the target support frame brace110 defining the hole 132, the target support frame brace holds theupper portions of the legs substantially together, thereby holding thetarget support frame braces 110 a, 110 b in place. It will beappreciated that the hard stop or engagement member 138 can be astructure which engages the tops of the legs 124 (such as a solid top tothe target support frame brace 110), openings near the top of the targetsupport frame brace, or a combination of the two, such as the two upperholes 134 through which the upper ends of the legs extend, along with astructure which prevents the advance of the legs, such as hard stop 138extending above the upper holes in the target frame support brace.

The target support frame brace 110 further comprises at least oneopening for receiving a target support structure 36. The target supportstructure 36 extends between the target support frame braces 110 andholds a plurality of targets 16 for use in target practice. The targets16 can be mounted on the target support structure 36 by simply placingthe lower end 20 a of the target arms 20 extending from the targetsbehind the target support structure and sliding the target into place.The target arms 20 may be held to the targets 16 via bolts 68 and nuts56 as discussed above. Additionally, the target arms 20 may have one ormore holes 70 so that a screw or other fastener can be used to securethe target arms to support structure 36 to inhibit movement, etc.

Turning now to FIG. 12, there is shown a front view of a portable targetsystem 104. The targets 16 are suspended from the target supportstructure 36 which is suspended between the target support frame braces110. The target support frame braces also hold the legs 124 in place tohold the target support structure above the ground.

Turning now to FIG. 13, there is shown a front view of an alternatearrangement of the portable target system. While FIG. 12 shows thetargets disposed between 10 and 25 degrees from vertical (ideally about15 degrees), FIG. 13 shows the targets disposed between 30 and 50degrees less than vertical (ideally about 45 degrees). When shooting ahand gun or low powered round such as a long rifle .22, it is desirableto direct the splatter downwardly at an angle of about 15 degrees. Thisminimizes the amount of ricochet which is directed toward the shooterand safely removes most of the inertia of the projectile. Higher poweredrounds, however, can damage the target it the impact is too close toperpendicular and can cause ricochets back toward the shooter. Byangling the plates at roughly 45 degrees, the projectile is deflectedsafely away from the shooter without damaging the target.

Turning now to FIG. 14, there is shown a side view of a portable targetsystem 104. The target support frame brace 110, includes a first pair ofholes 132 and a second pair of holes 142 in a lower portion of thebrace. The first, outer pair of holes 132 can receive the legs 124 sothat the legs extend through the holes and through a pair of holes 146in an upper portion of the of the target support frame brace 110. Whenthe legs 124 extend through the outer pair of holes 132, the targetsupport frame brace 110 is positioned at a first height above the grounddependent on the length of the legs and the angle thereof. If the legs132 are positioned in the inner pair of holes 142, the legs will extendmore vertically and raise the height of the brace 110. Alternatively,the inner holes 142 can simply be used as cut-outs to reduce the weightof the target support frame brace 110.

The upper portion 124 a of the legs 124 extend through one or more holes146 in the upper portion of the target support frame brace 110. (Whilediscussed herein as holes, those skilled in the art will appreciate thatother openings will work. In other words, there is no requirement thatthe structure of the target support frame brace extends all the wayaround the legs. For example, there could be openings in the portion ofthe brace on the outside of the legs allowing the lefts to be insertedsideways and then rotated if desired).

The tops of the legs 124 abut against the hard stop 138 to prevent themfrom passing too far out of the upper openings 146. As shown in FIG. 14,the lower portion of the target support frame brace 110 could be notched162 to receive the hard stops so that a number of the target supportframe braces can be stacked on top of one another.

The target support frame brace 110 can include a plurality of cut-outs148 to lessen the weight of the brace to make the system lighter andeasier to transport. The target support frame brace 110 may also includea pair of target support structure openings 152, 158. When the targetsupport structure 36 is a 2×4 piece of wood or similar material (whichis actually 1.5×3.5 inches) the target support structure openings 152and 158 are each configured slightly larger than 1.5×3.5 inches and mayoverlap one another. One of the openings, 152, has a height (i.e.extending along the long side) which is offset between about 30 and 50degrees less than vertical (most typically 45 degrees). As shown in FIG.14, the target support structure 36 is disposed in this opening. Thiscauses the target support structure 36 (in this case a 2×4) to be leanedforward at an angle of about 45 degrees. A target 16 disposed on thetarget support structure (e.g., held on by target arm 20 wrapping behindthe 2×4) is held at about 45 degrees. Thus, as configured in FIG. 14,the target 16 is positioned for a shooter to the right of the targetsupport frame brace firing a rifle.

In contrast, the second opening 158 has a height which is between 10 and25 degrees (most typically 15 degrees) less than vertical to the left.When the target support structure 36 is disposed in the second opening158, the 2×4 leans backward at an angle of between 10 and 25 degrees,and most commonly about 15 degrees. In such a configuration, the targets36 can be placed on the opposing side of the 2×4 so as to be positionedat about 15 degrees—the typically desired angle for handgun targets.This allows the portable target system 104 to be set up or reconfiguredwithin a couple of minutes. By pulling out the 2×4s or other legs/targetsupport structure, the entire system can be broken down into a sizewhich will easily fit in the trunks of most cars.

Turning now to FIG. 15, while the portable target system 104 can be verycompact, it can also be expanded to accommodate a greater number oftargets. By using a standard eight foot 2×4 or other target supportstructure 36, a greater number of targets can be used, such as the sixshown in FIG. 15. In the alternative, 2×4s which are only 3 feet inlength could be used for the legs 124 and the target support structure36 to make a very compact portable target system for an individual orsmall group of people to take for shooting at a remote location.

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of a number of target support framebraces 110 which are stacked in an alternating configuration such thatthe hard stop 138 of one brace is disposed in the notch 162 of theadjoining brace in order to allow the braces to be stored in a smallarea or to be readily mobile. By providing a pair of braces 110, targets16 (FIG. 15), the portable target system 4, and a few pieces of wood, alarge number of target configurations can be produced from componentswhich can easily fit in the trunk of a conventional sedan. Thus, arecreational shooter can take a target system camping or to any of anumber of remote locations. Likewise, a company or entity havingshooting competitions of training exercises, such as law enforcement,can have and store a large number of targets in a compact place. Forexample, a conventional van could easily hold dozens of target systems,in contrast to most available systems which consume much more space andlack the versatility shown herein.

Thus there is disclosed multiple embodiments of a portable targetsystem. It will be appreciated that numerous modifications may be madewithout departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Theappended claims are intended to cover such modifications.

What is claimed is:
 1. A portable target system comprising: a basehaving a receiving bracket, a first leg and a second leg, at least oneof the legs being bent so as to extend forwardly and outwardly on oneside of the receiving bracket and rearwardly and outwardly on a secondside of the receiving bracket.
 2. The portable target system of claim 1,wherein the receiving bracket has a plurality of channels at one end forengaging the first leg and the second leg.
 3. The portable target systemof claim 1, wherein at least one of the first leg and the second legincludes a flange extending outwardly, the flange having a hole formedtherein.
 4. The portable target system of claim 1, wherein at least oneof the first leg and the second leg includes a hook configured forengaging the receiving bracket.
 5. The portable target system of claim1, wherein the receiving bracket includes a first portion and a secondportion which are offset at an angle of between about 10 and 25 degreesfrom each other.
 6. The portable target system of claim 1, wherein eachof the legs has a plurality of feet.
 7. The portable target system ofclaim 1, further comprising a target bracket.
 8. The portable targetsystem of claim 7, wherein the target bracket has a fastener forsecuring the target bracket along a target support structure.
 9. Theportable target system of claim 7, wherein the target bracket is sizedto fit over and slide along a 2×4 piece of wood.
 10. The portable targetsystem of claim 7, wherein the target bracket further comprises achannel for receiving a target arm.
 11. The portable target system ofclaim 10, further comprising a target, the target having a target armextending away from the target.
 12. The portable target system of claim7, further comprising a deflector plate and a target arm extending fromthe deflector plate, the target arm being sized to nest in a channeldisposed on the target bracket.
 13. The portable target system of claim1, wherein the first leg and the second leg are disposed in anoverlapping configuration and wherein the receiving bracket is attachedto the legs by a pin.
 14. The portable target system of claim 13,wherein at least one leg has a flange in the form of a hook.
 15. Theportable target system of claim 14, further comprising a target bracketattached to the at least one leg by the flange.
 16. The portable targetsystem of claim 1 further comprising a target support structure disposedin the receiving bracket, a target bracket disposed on the targetsupport structure and a target attached to the target bracket.
 17. Theportable target system of claim 16, wherein the target comprises atarget arm.
 18. The portable target system of claim 17, wherein thetarget arm is generally J-shaped and wherein the target bracket has aslot formed thereon for receiving the target arm.
 19. The portabletarget system of claim 18, wherein the target arm is formed from springsteel.
 20. A target support frame brace comprising: a lower portionhaving a plurality of openings sized to receive a plurality of legs; anupper portion having a hard stop configured for engaging a plurality oflegs and preventing advancement thereof; and at least one target supportstructure opening disposed along the target support frame, the at leastone target support structure opening being disposed at an angle betweenabout 10 and 25 degrees from vertical.
 21. The target support framebrace of claim 20, wherein the at least one target support structureopening comprises a second opening disposed at an angle between about 30and 50 degrees less than vertical.
 22. The target support frame brace ofclaim 21, wherein the upper portion comprises a first opening and asecond opening and the blocking plate extending upwardly between thefirst opening and the second opening.
 23. A portable target systemincluding the target support frame brace of claim 20, and furthercomprising at least one target, the at least one target having a targetarm extending rearwardly from the target and spaced between 1 and 2inches from the target.
 24. The portable target system of claim 23,further comprising a plurality of legs extending into the openings onthe target support frame bracket and a target support structure disposedin the at least one target support structure opening.
 25. The portabletarget system of claim 24, wherein the target support frame bracketcomprises a second target support structure opening, wherein one targetsupport structure opening is disposed at between about 10 and 25 degreesless than vertical in one direction and wherein the second targetsupport frame structure opening is disposed between about 30 and 50degrees in the other direction.
 26. The portable target system of claim25, wherein the legs and the target support structure are made of 2×4s.